Ponta de São Lourenço Hike and Dolphin Swimming Experience
Trek the wild eastern peninsula, then take to the Atlantic for an encounter with dolphins off the coast of Machico.
This full-day excursion combines a scenic coastal hike across the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula with a boat journey along Madeira's eastern shoreline, culminating in an open-water dolphin watching and swimming session before returning to Machico.
The adventure begins at Baía d'Abra, where participants set out on foot along one of Madeira's most celebrated trails. The route crosses rugged volcanic terrain, offering unobstructed views of dramatic sea cliffs and the Atlantic stretching to the horizon. After roughly two hours of walking, the trail arrives at Casa do Sardinha, a resting point named after the family that once inhabited this remote stretch of coastline.
From the small cove at Cais do Sardinha, guests board a boat for a two-and-a-half-hour voyage toward Machico. The route passes the full length of the São Lourenço tip, providing a perspective of the peninsula that is only accessible from the water. Dolphins frequently accompany vessels along this corridor, and swimmers are welcome to enter the water for a closer encounter when conditions allow.
Upon docking in Machico, ground transportation returns participants to their accommodation. The experience is rated moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for reasonably active adults who are comfortable both on uneven trails and in open-sea conditions.
Tour Highlights
Hike the full length of the Ponta de São Lourenço trail from Baía d'Abra to Cais do Sardinha.
Board a boat at the historic Cais do Sardinha cove for an Atlantic crossing toward Machico.
Observe dolphins in their natural habitat along Madeira's eastern coastline from the water.
Swim alongside wild dolphins when sea and animal behavior conditions permit.
View the São Lourenço peninsula from the sea, a perspective unavailable from land alone.
Visit the historic Casa do Sardinha site and learn about its namesake family's coastal history.
Return transfer from Machico to your hotel is included at the end of the experience.
Itinerary
The group assembles at the Baía d'Abra car park, the designated trailhead for the Ponta de São Lourenço route. A brief orientation covers the terrain ahead, safety guidelines, and the day's schedule.
Approximately two hours of moderate hiking cross the narrow volcanic peninsula, passing exposed ridgelines and coastal lookout points. The trail descends to Casa do Sardinha, where a rest break is taken before continuing.
From the small cove adjacent to Casa do Sardinha, guests board the boat at Cais do Sardinha. This sheltered embarkation point marks the transition from the land portion to the maritime segment of the day.
The two-and-a-half-hour voyage follows the coastline westward toward Machico. Dolphins are regularly spotted along this route, and swimming with them is offered when conditions are appropriate.
The boat docks in the bay of Machico, one of Madeira's oldest settlements. Ground transport is arranged from the port back to participants' hotels to conclude the experience.
What Is Included
Included
- Professional hiking guide for the Ponta de São Lourenço trail
- Boat trip from Cais do Sardinha to Machico (approximately 2.5 hours)
- Dolphin watching and optional dolphin swimming session
- Return transfer from Machico to hotel
Not Included
- Personal travel insurance
- Meals and beverages during the tour
- Gratuities for guides and crew
- Any items of a personal nature
Important Information
Reserve Your Spot
Combine one of Madeira's finest coastal hikes with a rare open-water dolphin experience — all in a single full day on the island's dramatic eastern shore.
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